Have you ever felt an overwhelming sleepiness in the middle of the day? This is common and it usually occurs between the hours of 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. If you find yourself fighting that urge to sleep, and you are in a place where you can take a nap, then I suggest you might as well do it.
Did you know that napping is good for you? When you take the time for a nap, this will ease the sleepiness right away and will also improve your alertness for a couple of hours after waking. Based on research, an afternoon nap is good for adults as this can boost memory, lift your mood, and ease stress.
How long should a nap be? Well, it really depends on the amount of available time you have. In general, longer naps will make you feel renewed. A short nap of 20 to 30 minutes is highly encouraged for alertness. This short nap will improve your alertness throughout the day, and you will feel more energized to perform at work. Napping has psychological benefits as this is considered like a quick getaway to get some relaxation. Just like electronics, our body and mind are also designed to be powered off. We need to rest our mind and our body in order for us to function well. By not doing so, this may cause serious health issues, both mental and physical.
This year, on March 9th, we are celebrating the National Napping Day. This is an unofficial holiday that falls after Daylight Saving Time this year. How do we celebrate our favorite holiday? Snoozing, dozing and sleeping are highly encouraged! This holiday has been made to make people aware why napping is good. Here’s how a nap can help you:
Good for Your Memory
According to studies, a brief nap can help you recall things you learned earlier similar with a full night’s sleep. Napping allows you to improve on your motor skills, and verbal recall.
Improved Performance at Work
When you allow your mind and body to rest for a few minutes, this will allow you to reactivate your energy at work. You will be more productive and more consistent, when you allow yourself to take a nap.
Boost Your Mood
If you are not in the best mood, try to take a nap to lift your spirit up. Napping or even resting without falling asleep can change your entire mood and will brighten up your day. According to experts, napping or resting is a good way to boost your mood.
Helps You Be More Alert
The sleepiness you feel right after lunch is the struggle, we all have to deal with. Try to have a short nap of 15 to 20 minutes to help you battle the afternoon sleepiness.
Can Lessen Stress
If you are going through a lot of stress, a nap can certainly release stress and improve your mental health.
A Nap Makes You More Inspired
Have you ever experienced waking up with a great idea? That’s right! During nap or sleep, parts of your brain responsible for imagery and dreaming are activated. This will help you to become more creative and inspired with new ideas.
Now with all the positive reasons we have given you about why napping is good, you have to take some time out of your day to catch some ZZZ’s! Happy National Napping Day!
Let Tribeca Physical Therapy assist you with lowering your resting heart rate. Tribeca Physical Therapy is officially reopened for in-person physical therapy sessions and continues to offer Telehealth PT or Virtual PT. Call us at 2124068080 or message us and book your first session free.
